What if a gasteracantha spider bites a baby?

Answer 1

Clean the area well with soap and water (antibacterial if possible). Possibly use a mild astringent like witch hazel. Alcohol and peroxide tend to be drying to the skin and can make the healing time actually longer as they interfere with tissue granulation. A cool cloth can help alleviate pain and swelling. In rare cases of sensitivity to arthropod poison watch for difficulty breathing, sweating, hives or weakness. If this is the case go to your emergency room. Spider bites are generally harmless. The biggest thing to watch for is infection. The site will be red and painful or itchy, that kinda depends. Infection is a common secondary problem with spider bites, especially with children who tend to scratch. If you see signs of infection, puss, drainage, red streaks extending from the bite are, large amount of swelling and warmth,apply warm compresses and consult your doctor. Most likely however, nothing will happen. Allergies develop over repeated exposure as a general rule so it is unlikely a baby will have an allergic reaction to a spider bite. The bite will probably be a little irritating for a few days then go away.